In the modern world, automation of water flow control processes has firmly entered our lives. The electromagnetic valve (solenoid) for water is widely used in a variety of pipeline systems and devices with automatic control. The device is used not only in complex technological processes, but also for domestic purposes. Using the solenoid valve, you can remotely supply the desired volume of water in a certain period of time. For example, irrigation systems with automatic water supply, control of heating processes, regulation of boiler facilities and water discharge.
Solenoid valve device
A typical solenoid valve for water, the photo of which is presented on the left, consists of the following basic elements:
- solenoid coil;
- coil anchor;
- closing spring;
- solenoid valve plate;
- pilot hole;
- diaphragm of the membrane amplifier;
- main flow hole;
- leveling flow hole;
- forced valve opening system with a spring.
What are electromagnetic valves for water made of?
The design of the solenoid valves is quite clear:
- the valve body and cover are usually made of brass, special polymers, cast iron and stainless steel, since the device operates in different environments, at different temperature conditions and pressures;
- rubber, rubber, silicone, and fluoroplastic are best suited as the basis for creating membranes, seals, and body gaskets;
- plungers and rods are made of special magnetic material;
- valve electric coils are located in sealed enclosures that protect the device from dust;
- enamel wire made of electrotechnical copper is used for winding coils.
Principle of operation
In the static position, when the device’s coil is de-energized, due to the mechanical action of the spring, the diaphragm or piston of the valve are sealed to the valve seat. Under the influence of electric voltage, the electromagnetic valve opens. This is because the
magnetic field generated inside the device draws the plunger into the valve coil.
In the event of a power outage or failure of the remote control panel, the electromagnetic solenoid valves for water can be used as a regular tap. To do this, turn the tap in the direction of the arrow by ¼ turn.
Types of solenoid valves
The shutoff solenoid valve for water, depending on the on and off mechanism, is:
- direct action;
- pilot action.
Electromagnetic valves for direct-acting
water are used at low flow rates. The mechanism for opening and closing the valve is as follows: the device is triggered by the force that occurs when connected to an electrical network.
Unlike the previous pilot valve, it closes and opens by means of the energy of the water flow, which is controlled by electric voltage. This device is used mainly at high costs. It is worth remembering that for the smooth operation of the solenoid valve, a pressure differential (0.2 atm) is important.
Depending on the main operating position, the solenoid valves are divided into:
- normally open - in the absence of an energy source they are in the open state, and when current is applied, they are closed;
- normally closed - in the absence of electrical voltage are in a closed state, and when energized, they are closed;
- bistable - able to switch from one position to another under the influence of a control impulse.
Types of induction coils:
- DC - the valve is characterized by a small force of the electromagnetic field. Used to control low pressure flow;
- alternating current - have a large electromagnetic field strength. When a large amount of electricity is consumed, the valve closing speed increases, which provides a more powerful flow.
Installation of solenoid valves
By the method of connecting to the pipeline is found:
- flange solenoid valve for water;
- threaded solenoid valve.
Installation of the solenoid valve should be carried out on a previously cleaned pipeline. It is desirable that the system be equipped with a dirt filter. The location in the pipeline should be selected so that the valve is freely accessible. However, due to its compact size, it is easy to install it even in cramped conditions.
The position of the valve does not affect the operation of the device, so it can be any. It is worth remembering that the non-return solenoid valve for water should be mounted taking into account the direction of water flow.
Application area
In the modern world, the field of use of solenoid valves is quite extensive. Most often they are installed:
- in industrial production - in automatic flushing systems for water treatment lines, to maintain the required water level in the tanks of the oil and gas, chemical and energy industries;
- in housing - when creating the "smart home" system, to regulate the flow of water in aquariums;
- in the sewer system - an electromagnetic valve for hot and cold water , using a timer, controls the flow of water to public plumbing units;
- in the washing system - ensure the normal operation of household and industrial washing machines, dishwashers, car washes;
- in boiler units - regulate the filling of tanks and steam boilers with water;
- in expansion systems - they provide automatic replenishment of heating systems;
- in large kitchens - for bakeries, coffee combines, cooking tanks, etc.
Rules for installation and operation
Electromagnetic valves for water during installation and operation require compliance with certain rules:
- safety rules;
- it is not recommended to carry out installation in which the valve coil will act as a lever;
- installation and removal of the valve should be carried out only in a de-energized state;
- a filter must be installed in front of the solenoid valve to protect the device seat from large mechanical elements;
- the valve body should not be stressed by the weight of the pipeline, nor should it take the place of a twisting and bending element of the system;
- the direction of water flow in the pipes should coincide with the indicators on the valve body;
- when mounting in an open area, electromagnetic fittings should be additionally protected from atmospheric precipitation;
- it is recommended to use the FUM tape as a sealant at the joints of the valve body and pipe;
- when installing a valve with a flange connection, a sealing ring or gasket made of paronite is used;
- when connecting the device to the electric network, a flexible cable with a cross-section of conductors of at least 1 mm is used;
- operation of the valve should be carried out in accordance with the operating rules of a particular device;
- once every three months you need to check the tightness of the power elements, as well as to clean the coil from dirt and dust.
The main causes of failure
Over time, even the most reliable equipment can go bad. No exception and the solenoid valve for water. Failures can be caused by a number of reasons:
- electric current does not reach the valve - occurs in the event of a cable break from the control panel;
- during normal supply of electrical energy, the device does not work - the spring may be broken, solenoid replacement is required;
- there is no click sound when turned on - the electromagnetic coil burned out;
- the hole on which the solenoid is wound is clogged - cleaning of the hole by unwinding the structure is required.
Proper installation and compliance with operating conditions ensure reliable operation of solenoid valves for a long time.